Ansible and Terraform ( IAC ) Engineer
Location : Columbus, OH (100% onsite )
*Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future*
Role Summary
Looking for an automation-focused engineer to provision and configure OS hosts using Terraform (IaC) and Ansible (configuration management).
The role supports Windows Server 2019 → 2022 refresh initiatives primarily by enabling repeatable, script-driven builds, enforcing baseline standards, and supporting migration waves from an infrastructure readiness standpoint.
Primary Responsibilities (Automation & Provisioning – Core Focus)
- Build and maintain Terraform code to provision server infrastructure (modules, variables, state practices as applicable in the program).
- Develop and maintain Ansible roles/playbooks to configure Windows servers post-provisioning (baseline config, prerequisite packages, repeatable setup).
- Standardize “push-button” provisioning so Windows Server 2022 builds are consistent, compliant, and reproducible across environments.
- Troubleshoot and remediate provisioning failures in Terraform/Ansible pipelines, including drift and idempotency issues.
- Partner with platform/security teams to embed enterprise baseline requirements (hardening, logging prerequisites, standard configuration) into automation where applicable.
- Maintain version control, documentation, and runbooks for provisioning automation (how-to run, inputs/outputs, common failure patterns).
- Support automation integration into CI/CD style workflows where used (e.g., orchestration pipelines), aligning to automated provisioning approaches.
Good to have :-
(Windows Migration Support)
- Support Windows Server 2019 → 2022 refresh execution by ensuring OS-level readiness of newly provisioned servers.
- Assist with migration wave execution activities (e.g., readiness checks, cutover support, post-cutover stabilization)
- Coordinate with app teams for infra-level troubleshooting during wave windows (access, connectivity, server readiness issues).
Required Skills & Experience
- Hands-on experience with Terraform for infrastructure provisioning.
- Hands-on experience with Ansible for configuration management/automation.
- Ability to debug automation issues end-to-end (inputs, dependencies, execution logs, repeatability).
- Working knowledge of Windows Server administration fundamentals (enough to configure/troubleshoot Windows 2022 hosts in an automated build model).
- Strong documentation and operational rigor (runbooks, repeatable procedures, controlled changes).
About us
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, building the bridge between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.
Additional employment information
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
